Document Type

Honors Project

First Advisor

Dr. Barbara Long

Degree Award Date

Spring 2002

Keywords

Intrathecal Baclofen Therapy, Spasticity, Pediatric Cerebral Palsy Patients, Case Study

Disciplines

Chemicals and Drugs | Medicine and Health Sciences | Pediatrics

Abstract

The goal of this research paper is to explore the treatment options available for pediatric cerebral palsy patients with a main focus on intrathecal baclofen (1TB) therapy. Because severe spasticity is so common in CP individuals, it is crucial that potential methods of treatment be discovered. Traditional methods of treating spasticity, such as oral baclofen and rhizotomy, are often not adequate for pain alleviation and reduction of hypertonicity. As a result, intrathecal baclofen therapy has become a viable alternative for dealing with the effects of spasticity in individuals suffering from cerebral palsy. Through a study of the literature and research on the use of intrathecal baclofen therapy along with a case study of a pediatric CP patient receiving 1TB therapy, the benefits of this treatment method are apparent. With the use of intrathecal baclofen therapy, the ultimate goal is that activities of daily living, range of motion, independence levels, and overall quality of life will be increased for individuals with cerebral palsy while pain and hypertonicity will be decreased and even alleviated.

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